Also known as a Laftebile, this Norwegian Log Building Axe by Peeter Reeman of Rouge Smithy is one of the most impressive tools we've used to date, and now have the pleasure of making available to Woodsmith customers.

The Norwegian log building axe, or laftebile, is a specialised tool used in traditional log construction, essential for hewing, notching, and shaping logs. It’s designed to flatten round logs into squared beams and carve precise notches for interlocking corners, ensuring a tight fit and sturdy structure. Ideal for detailed joinery, the laftebile is a must-have for crafting durable, traditional log buildings.

This axe is incredibly versatile, and some would argue you could almost make an entire log building with just this tool! Despite its heavy head, it has a wide and deep beard for detail work, and the super sharp edge makes it great for pushing and shaving. 

The axe head is forged from durable ordinary iron, as it would have been by smiths centuries ago. The blade is laminated using ancient techniques, incorporating BÖHLER K 460 steel - a premium tool steel known for its exceptional hardness, wear resistance, and edge retention. This combination of traditional methods and modern materials results in a blade that is both robust and sharp, making it ideal for the demanding tasks of log building.

We first discovered Peeter's tools through our good friend George Fuller, who used them in all of his log-building courses at the Norsk Lafteskole. Having used these tools in several of our own log cabin builds, we can personally attest to the exceptional craftsmanship, deeply researched design, and remarkable edge retention that Peeter's tools offer. Each tool crafted by Peeter is a testament to his dedication to the craft and his deep understanding of the needs of timber framers which he's developed with several of Europe and Scandinavia's leading log building schools.

Product Details:

• Weight: 2.3kg, approx (as a handmade tool, there can be small variance)
• Length of edge: 16cm
• Length of handle: 44cm
• Double bevel, comes razor sharp. If you are looking for a chisel edge timber axe, take a look at this axe from Svante Djarv.
• Custom leather sheath included.

You can watch the process behind Peeter's forging in this video below, including the lamination of the blade's edge. If you're short on time, recommend you watch this very cool video of Peeter on his Instagram page!

About Rouge Smithy:

Rouge Smithy is the forge behind master blacksmith Peeter Reeman, who has specialised in crafting tools for timber framing for over two decades. Peeter's journey as a blacksmith began in 1990 at the smithy “Three Blacksmiths” in Estonia, where he was mentored by five skilled blacksmiths who guided him on the path to becoming a bladesmith.

Throughout his career, Peeter has honed his craft under the tutelage of master blacksmiths across Europe. He refined his skills in Austria with Master Walfred Huber and in Hungary under the guidance of various local experts. In 1999, Peeter dedicated himself to forging axes and blades, mastering the art of creating tools for timber and log processing. His training culminated in 2001, when he perfected his craft in forging axes and timber tools under the guidance of Halle Groeling in Lillehammer, Norway.

Today, Peeter not only creates exceptional tools but also shares his knowledge with the next generation of blacksmiths as a guest lecturer at Tartu University Viljandi Culture Academy.